The Parole and Probation Administration (PPA) MIMAROPA is introducing a Unified Aftercare Referral/Monitoring System aimed at providing comprehensive support for former Persons Deprived of Liberty (PDLs).
According to PPA MIMAROPA Regional Director Janette S. Padua, this system adopts a holistic approach, emphasizing collaboration between various local and national government agencies.
These agencies include the local government units (LGUs), Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP), Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE), Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA), Department of Education (DepEd), and other agencies involved in the rehabilitation and reintegration of former PDLs into the community.
“Ang corrections pillar talaga ay walang sistema para sa mga nakulong. Ano ang sistema na ito? It is holistic because there is the involvement of local government unit that will create a circle of support…Sila ay aalagaan ng gobyerno through holistic approach…sasaluhin ako ng support na galing sa mayor o provincial governor at dito kung kailangan ko ng pag-aaral, kailangan ko ba ng skills, kailangan ko ng livelihood program [ay] mayroon nang circle of support. Headed by CSWDO or MSWDO, bahala na kung sinong circle of support na gagawin ang LGU at sila po ang magre-refer,” said Padua.
[The corrections system has long lacked a comprehensive support structure for former inmates. What makes this system holistic is the involvement of local government units, which will create a circle of support for these individuals. The government will assist them through this approach, with support from mayors or provincial governors. If they need education, skills training, or livelihood programs, the LGUs will create a support network to address their needs.]
The system’s pilot implementation will run for three years, focusing on assessing the specific needs of former PDLs based on their desires and circumstances.
Padua cited that the PPA’s system doesn’t end with providing programs to former PDLs. The system includes monitoring to ensure the effectiveness and success of the programs and services provided.
The referral/monitoring system being implemented by PPA MIMAROPA is the first of its kind in the country and is currently being carried out in Calapan City with the help of the local government. It is set to expand to other municipalities in Oriental Mindoro later this year, with plans to extend to additional provinces once the details of coordination with local governments in four provinces are finalized.
A proposed digitalization of the Unified Aftercare Referral/Monitoring System is also scheduled to be turned over on January 27, aiming to make the data management process more efficient and streamlined for former PDLs.
Through this initiative, the Unified Aftercare Referral/Monitoring System and Program for former PDLs by PPA MIMAROPA will ensure that those released from detention receive the appropriate support and interventions tailored to their needs. (JJGS/PIA MIMAROPA-Oriental Mindoro/ File photos courtesy of Bureau of Corrections)
